The Question:

Can you explain the difference between 'hard' and 'soft' money
contributions. I am trying to teach this to a group of ninth graders
without much luck.

The Answer:

'Hard' money is contributed directly to a candidate. It is
regulated by law and monitored by the Federal Election Commission.
Individuals can give no more than $2,500 to each candidate or
candidate committee per election.

'Soft' money is contributed to the Republican and Democratic
National Committees, and to the party committees in each state. 'Soft'
contributions are not as heavily regulated. The parties may use such
money to promote candidates or
finance party projects, such as political conventions.